Sinus Infection – air filters and hydrogen peroxide to the rescue

One of my weaknesses is sinus infections. I am allergic to many things and exposure causes my sinuses to be unhappy; then an infection sets in.

For a long time, I have been relying in saline spray (Ocean brand from Publix), hot steam (head over bowl, covered by towel) with eucalyptus essential oil, and hot tubs/showers. This really reduces the need to get antibiotics…for me, at least. I’ve talked to others with their own home remedies. Avoidance of antibiotics is critical. However, sometimes it becomes necessary.

** Note: Eucalyptus oil may be a trigger for some people with porphyria. It does not bother me; but, it may be bad for you. Thanks to J.M. for the comment. **

This year, the antibiotics have not been doing the trick. During the summer, I went 5 weeks on 3 courses of 2 different antibiotics. The doctor wanted to send me to a specialist to do more “aggressive” antibiotic therapies. That is terrifying. So, I had to try something different. The local pharmacist suggested that I get an air filter; he uses one from Winix…so, that is what I went with. In addition to that, I started adding hydrogen peroxide to the saline. With these two things in play, my sinuses cleared up in 3 days! I don’t just spray the saline in a mist; I lean my head back or bend over, like I am touching my toes, and spray liberally. I had to experiment with the amount of peroxide to keep from causing bleeding. It stings; but, it is not bad.

I’ve discussed this process with my hematologist and my wife discussed it with her doctor; they thought it was a good idea, if it works. I doubt they will suggest it to anyone though; doctors seem to be too steeped in pharmacology and surgery.

As in all things, consulting a doctor is the smart thing to do; and, where government control is strong, it may be the legal thing to do.